Frenotomy and frenectomy with breastfeeding support

Frenectomy, frenotomy (also called frenulotomy), and frenoloplasty are sometimes used interchangeably but refer to different procedures to release the frenum to treat tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) in infants. Ankyloglossia is a condition that limits how well an infant can move their tongue and may sometimes cause breastfeeding difficulties.

Status: Public comment open

Why is frenotomy and frenectomy being reviewed?

Frenectomy and frenotomy for breastfeeding support were selected for a health technology assessment (HTA) because of high concerns for efficacy, and medium concerns for safety and cost.

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = Medium
  • Efficacy = High
  • Cost = Medium

Documentation

Type Materials
Assessment (2025)

Assessment timeline

  • Draft key questions published: September 26, 2024
    • Public comment period: September 26 to October 10, 2024
  • Final key questions October 24, 2024
  • Draft report published: March 4, 2025
    • Public comment period: March 4 to April 4, 2025
  • Final report published: May 13, 2025
  • HTCC public meeting: June 13, 2025
  • Draft findings and decision published: June 17, 2025 
    • Public comment period: June 17 to June 30, 2025
  • Final findings and decision published: July 25, 2025

 

All future dates are estimates and subject to change.